The July 24, second annual Danny “Turtle” Johnson motorcycle poker run landed a big hand for the Historic First Baptist Church restoration project.
When the 150-plus poker hands, tee shirt sales, auction and meals were tallied, the day had yielded a total of $15,411. Of that $1,300 was donated to the American Heart Association, in Johnson’s honor, leaving $14,111 to help complete work on the church.
“It took a lot of people to bring it all together,” said Norbert Gildehaus. “But in the end it was a great day.”
Among the veteran Poker Run organizers for the event, which was headquartered at the Pacific American Legion Post 320, were half a dozen members of Turtle Johnson’s family, including one sister, three brothers, his daughter and fiancé.
Another second fundraising program for the restoration project is set for Aug. 15 at 3:00 p.m. The First Baptist Church of Gray Summit will repeat its September 7, 2017 Gospel Sing music presentation to benefit Historic First Baptist. There is no cost to attend donations-only the event.
Final restoration work on the church continues under the guidance of project coordinator Benton Kelley. The Restoration Committee has set a Thanksgiving Day 2021 completion day when the restored church will be turned over to the pastor Rev. Robert Stevenson and the congregation.
A noteworthy cause in memory of one so loved. That contagious smilwould soften the hardest heart. He would be proud to know that his life really did matter to others. I was happy to see Stevie in the photo as well as other members of the family. What a good family they were and are to all. They learned decency, humility, and acts of kindness from two wonderful parents, Ada & Kenny Johnson.😇😇😇